Lecture Notes on Aggression and Human Behavior

Vocabulary flashcards based on lecture notes discussing aggression, evolution, and human behavior.

Genetic Phylogenies

The use of genetic methods to recreate phylogenies and show relationships between humans and other animals, especially primates.

Intraspecies Homicide

Proportion of deaths caused by members of the same species, used to compare aggression levels across different animal groups.

Boundary Control

Observed behavior where chimpanzees patrol territory boundaries, looking for members of other groups.

Chimpanzee on Chimpanzee Violence

Refers to violence committed by chimpanzees against other chimpanzees.

Head Trauma

Trauma to the head, often found in ancient human skulls, suggestive of violence.

Paleolithic CSI

Application of modern forensic techniques to analyze very old human remains.

Functions of Aggression

The plausible functions that aggression serves in animals, such as securing resources or deterring rivals.

Deter Rivals

Using aggression to prevent rivals from accessing resources or to eliminate them.

Defend Against Rivals

Using aggression to safeguard one's resources and defend against potential attacks.

Defend Reputation

Using aggression to protect one's self-image and reputation.

Wing Waving

A bird behavior involving wing movements used as visual signals to resolve conflict before physical attacks.

Aggression as Retaliation

Responding with aggression to perceived offenses or harms.

Interpersonal Causes of Homicides

Classifying the circumstances surrounding homicides based on investigations, such as arguments or property disputes.

Homicides from Arguments

Homicides resulting from altercations or heated disagreements.

Desire to Seek Revenge

Seeking revenge when someone inflicts harm or disrespect.

Third Party Aggression

Aggression directed at someone other than the initial provoker.

Leviathan

A concept from Thomas Hobbes suggesting the necessity of a strong central authority to prevent societal collapse into a 'war of all against all.'

State of Nature

Hobbes' idea that in the absence of a governing state, life would be a constant struggle for self-preservation.

Neural systems to regulate aggression

Systems in the brain that regulate and manage aggressive behavior by processing sensory information.

Direct motor pathway

A direct route in the brain that creates innate, almost reflex-like aggressive responses.